Broomrapes (Orobanche)

Broomrapes

Broomrapes is a genus of over 200 species of parasitic herbaceous plants , mostly native to the temperate Northern Hemisphere. The broomrapes plant is small, from 10 to 60 cm tall depending on species. It is best recognized by its yellow- to straw-coloured stems completely lacking chlorophyll, bearing yellow, white, or blue snapdragon-like flowers. The flower shoots are scaly, with a dense terminal spike of between ten and twenty flowers in most species, although single in O. uniflora. The leaves are merely triangular scales. The seeds are minute, tan-to-brown, and blacken with age.

Scientific classification

Genus

Broomrapes (Orobanche)

Family

Broomrape

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Broomrapes

Species

Small broomrape Ivy broomrape Bean broomrape Slender broomrape Greater broomrape Bedstraw broomrape Thyme broomrape Knapweed broomrape Amethyst broomrape Orobanche pycnostachya Thistle broomrape Fetid broomrape Orobanche kochii Yellow broomrape Germander broomrape Orobanche grenieri Orobanche laxissima Blue broomrape

Care Guide for Broomrapes

Every week

Water

Water: Adapted to arid environments, broomrapes efficiently extracts moisture, thriving with minimal watering—once a week. As a parasitic plant, it sustains itself by drawing water and nutrients from the roots of other plants, demonstrating unique survival strategies in dry regions.

Propagation: Propagation of broomrapes relies on seeds and requires host plant attachment. Key factors include timing of seed dispersal, suitable soil, and host compatibility. Steps: collect seeds, grow host plants, sow seeds near roots, maintain moisture/temperature, and monitor attachment for successful growth.

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Learn More About Broomrapes

How to Grow and Care

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